Top Tips for Travel Safety

Wander Wisely: Top Tips for Staying Safe Abroad

The world is calling, adventure awaits! But before you dive headfirst into that exotic escapade, remember that exploring new cultures and landscapes comes with responsibility. Staying safe while traveling should be a top priority. Ensure your trip is memorable for all the right reasons. So, here’s your guide to wandering wisely:

Before You Go:

• Research is Key: Knowledge is your best defense. Delve into your destination’s customs, laws, and potential safety concerns. The UK government’s Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website (FCDO) offers invaluable travel advice and updates. If you do not normally reside in the UK, either check your own country’s government website or check the local tourist board for your destination.
• Insurance is a Must: Don’t leave home without comprehensive travel insurance. Ensure it covers medical emergencies, lost baggage, and any planned activities like extreme sports. Do you live in the UK? Get covered from just £2.65 here

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• Share Your Itinerary: Leave a detailed plan with a trusted friend or family member. Include flight details, accommodation information, and emergency contacts. Handy tip: AwardWallet lets you keep all your flight and hotel bookings in one place and track any reward programs you may be a member of. Try it for free here
• Photocopy Everything: Make copies of your passport, visa, driver’s license, and travel insurance documents. Keep them separate from the originals and store digital copies online. While it will still be a challenge to replace a lost or stolen passport, it will be easier if you have a copy detailing the passport number.

On the Ground:

• Blend In: Avoid flashy jewelry and expensive gadgets that might attract unwanted attention. Dress respectfully and be mindful of local customs. That way, you will blend into crowds more easily.
• Stay Aware: Be vigilant in crowded areas, markets, and tourist hotspots. Keep an eye on your belongings and be wary of pickpockets. Never keep your wallet in your back pocket.
• Secure Your Valuables: Utilize hotel safes for passports, cash, and electronics. Carry only what you need for the day. In some countries, it is the law to carry your passport or ID card with you – check before you travel. If this is not a legal requirement or a photocopy would be acceptable, simply carry the photocopy along with another photo ID such as a driving licence. It is much easier to replace a driving licence than a passport.
• Trust Your Gut: If a situation feels uncomfortable or unsafe, remove yourself. It is better to be safe than sorry.
• Food and Drink Smarts: Stick to reputable establishments and bottled water. Be cautious of street food, especially in areas with questionable hygiene. Check with your doctor before you travel regarding what vaccinations may be recommended or required for your destination.
• Transportation Safety: Use official taxis or ride-sharing services. Research public transport routes and schedules in advance. Although apps such as Bolt or Uber do work in a lot of cities abroad, they may not be available in all countries, or may not have many drivers in rural areas.

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• Stay Connected: Ensure your phone is charged and consider a local SIM card for easy communication. If your phone is compatible, consider an eSIM to save on data roaming costs.

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Extra Precautions:

• Learn Basic Phrases: Knowing a few key phrases in the local language can be incredibly helpful in emergencies.
• Emergency Numbers: Save local emergency numbers in your phone and keep a written note in your wallet. 112 will work for the emergency services in any EU country, including the UK. For situations that may not be an emergency e.g. to report a theft, you should check for the contact details of the local police, or head to your nearest police station. In the UK, the number for non-emergency police services is 101.
• Get the contact details for the embassy of your home country in-destination, if possible. If you are an EU citizen and your country does not have an embassy in your destination, you can request assistance from any EU country with an embassy in-destination.

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